Knoll boosts Gawler St pedestrian safety

Member for Schubert Stephan Knoll says pedestrians in the heart of Nuriootpa can look forward to improved safety and retail outlet access thanks to a $200,000 commitment from the State Government.

The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure has recently concluded planning and design work and proposes to install a “wombat” crossing and new LED lighting on Gawler Street, adjacent The Co-op mall.

Mr Knoll said this preliminary work identified the $70,000 awarded through the Fund My Neighbourhood program would not be sufficient to complete the project.

Further funding was sought and subsequently granted through the State Government’s Improved Rural Roads Program.“This is a massive win for Nuriootpa pedestrian safety,” Mr Knoll said.

“The initial funding of $70,000 was awarded last year to install a crossing on Gawler Street and allow pedestrians to move safely from The Co-op’s new shopping mall to retail stores on the other side.

“Extensive planning and design work undertaken by DPTI this year quickly revealed a greater investment was required.

“As a result, we were able to boost funding for this project to ensure this much needed infrastructure will be delivered in the new year.”

The wombat crossing will align with the mall’s northern entrance, about 100 metres to the west of the Gawler and Murray Street intersection (see attached concept image).

A wombat crossing is a raised platform designed to help pedestrians cross busy roads. A 40 kilometre an hour speed limit applies within 30 to 50 metres of the crossing and drivers must stop for anyone crossing or about to cross the road.

Mr Knoll said works were scheduled to commence in mid-March 2019 and expected to be completed by April 2019, weather permitting.

Prior to the commencement of works, the community is invited to provide feedback until Friday, December 21.